Phnom Penh, July 4, 2024 – The Ministry of Commerce has embarked on a pivotal initiative to establish a comprehensive network of wholesale markets across Cambodia. This strategic move aims to enhance market efficiency, minimize post-harvest losses, and ensure price stability throughout the country.
A specialized working group has been formed to assess the feasibility of creating government-operated wholesale markets in both the capital and various provinces. The group recently commenced its evaluation by conducting a two-day study, on July 1-2, of local agricultural markets in Battambang and Kampong Thom provinces.
The assessment focused on several critical aspects such as optimal market locations, infrastructure requirements, product diversity, and potential benefits for all involved stakeholders.
The working group divided into two teams for a more thorough investigation. The first team, led by Seang Thay, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce and Chairman of the Working Group, traveled to Battambang province. There, they engaged with the provincial deputy governor, officials from the Provincial Departments of Commerce and Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and local traders to gain insights into the region's agricultural processes, from cultivation and harvesting to transportation, and market demands and supplies. The team also visited the Phu Puy wholesale market to observe the trading, supply, and distribution activities firsthand and interacted with the local agricultural production community to understand the dynamics of harvesting and distribution.
The second team, guided by Oum Kosal, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce and Vice Chairman of the Working Group, held discussions in Kampong Thom. They met with the provincial governor and local commerce officials, focusing on the production, supply, and flow of agricultural products, particularly fruits and vegetables. This team also visited local agricultural production communities to further understand the challenges and recommendations of producers and traders.
The envisioned nationwide wholesale markets promise to revolutionize Cambodia’s agricultural sector by enhancing operational efficiencies, reducing losses after harvest, and stabilizing market prices. Such developments are anticipated to significantly bolster food security and promote economic growth across the nation.
